History
The game arrived in this country from Ireland about 150 years ago as a country house pastime, and grew rapidly in popularity. By 1867 an Open Championship had been established. With the invention of lawn tennis the game fell into decline, but since the foundation of the Croquet Association in 1897 it has made steady progress There are currently over 150 events held annually in the Croquet Association calendar, ranging from World Championships to weekend handicap tournaments.

Facilities and Equipment required
There are 125 clubs affiliated to the Croquet Association where the game may be played, as well many unaffiliated clubs. The game is also played in many private gardens. You will need to wear trousers or shorts and flat soled shoes; all other equipment can be provided by clubs, although you may wish eventually to have your own mallet (cost £60-£100). For tournament play white clothing is usually required.

Benefits of participating
Croquet is a sport that can be played by young and old, male and female, on equal terms, and does not require any great athletic ability. It does however require a degree of mental toughness, an ability to think tactically, and the persistence necessary to develop the skills needed to implement one's tactical intentions.

Variations
There are two main forms of the game, Association Croquet, which is the more complex version, and Golf Croquet, which can be more easily learnt. Variants of the game have been developed for play on smaller courts, or indoors.